Florida Gators quarterback Emory Jones. Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

Florida QB Emory Jones enters transfer portal

By Adam Stites | Last updated 3/19/22

Emory Jones made his foray into the transfer portal official Saturday in a statement thanking Florida Gators players, coaches, and fans for his time with the program.

"After many conversations with my family and after putting a lot of thought into my future, I have decided to enter the transfer portal," Jones wrote, in part. "I am proud to say that I will continue my education at the University of Florida with the goal of becoming a Gator Graduate at the end of the spring semester."

All love Gator Nation! pic.twitter.com/zYpsrqVuzj
— Emory Jones (@eXjones6) March 19, 2022

Jones was a highly touted prospect at Florida, who earned play time early in his time with the Gators. While many expected a breakout season in 2021 with Jones stepping into the starting lineup, it was a disappointing year. He threw 19 touchdowns with 13 interceptions and was replaced at times by freshman Anthony Richardson.

With Richardson favored to become the starter in 2022, Jones told ESPN's Pete Thamel in December that he'd enter the transfer portal. That didn't come to fruition as the quarterback was persuaded to return to the university by new head coach Billy Napier.

Now Jones has reversed course and will play elsewhere. In a statement, Napier thanked Jones and his family for their contributions to the Gators.

More must-reads: